It is regrettable that two important and significant meetings between China and the European Union cannot take place as planned because China has cancelled them. Such meetings are valuable opportunities to deepen mutual understanding and build trust. At the same time, it is positive that discussions at the working level are continuing. The dialogue has not been broken off, and the channels of communication remain open. This is in the interest of both sides. Nevertheless, the cancellations must not lead to further delays in necessary decisions on the European side. The challenges in the relationship between Europe and China are well known. The upcoming decisions must be taken at the EU summit, regardless of whether individual meetings take place or not. First: The European Commission must undertake an honest assessment. Europe faces the task of restoring the competitiveness of its industry. Many of today's problems are not the result of Chinese decisions, but rather the consequence of its own political missteps, which were supported by the European Parliament during the years 2019 to 2024. At the same time, European voters made it clear with the 2024 election that they expect a change of course. Second: Europe needs a genuine level playing field with China. Economic relations must be based on reciprocity. Whatever applies to European companies in China should, without exceptions "one-to-one" also apply to Chinese companies in Europe. Open markets can only function sustainably if the same rules apply to everyone. Third: Europe must safeguard its legitimate interests. China pursues a different economic model from Europe. It is not Europe's role to tell China how to organise its economy. However, when certain industries gain advantages through extensive state support, Europe must have the ability to protect its own economy from distortions of competition. The same principle applies in reverse. If China shields its markets in certain sectors or restricts European products, Europe should first understand this as an expression of Chinese interests. Agriculture in particular demonstrates that Europe also makes substantial use of state support measures. Lasting solutions therefore arise not through mutual accusations, but through transparency, reciprocity, and clear rules. The relationship between China and Europe is greater than any individual meeting. Once a river has begun its course, it cannot be permanently stopped. It may bend, encounter obstacles, or flow more slowly at times, but in the end it will find its way to the sea. The task of responsible politics is to ensure that this path is managed in an orderly, fair, and mutually beneficial manner.

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Best summary of how China conducts diplomacy with the EU.